Ableism Is Still a Core Part of Church Spaces. Here’s How to Change It

A red and white sign stating 'ramp closed,' is chained to black iron handrails in front of church ramp entrance. Photo: Heather Wharram / Alamy

I’ll never forget my pastor’s response when I asked about putting a $130 portable ramp in the building where our church meets: “That’s not stewarding tithe well,” he announces without embarrassment. He acts as if he’s making a measured budgetary decision — like he is choosing between two beige paint colors of a similar hue. Except I am the one on eggshells.

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An image of the November 2026 issue of Sojourners, titled "Face to Face." It features George Lakey on the cover
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